A new range of portable line array systems is now available from Bose Professional, targeted at singer-songwriters, mobile DJs and bands. There are three new systems – the L1 Pro8, the L1 Pro16 and L1 Pro32 with a choice of two subwoofers. Bose says the range offers 180° horizontal coverage, as well as exceptional clarity and tonal balance.
A RaceTrack woofer design is integrated into the L1 Pro8, L1 Pro16 and the Bose Sub1 and Sub2 modular subwoofers, to provide extended base response and less bulk, making the subwoofers much easier to transport, carry and fit onstage. Built-in multichannel mixers offer EQ, reverb and phantom power, while there are also Bluetooth streaming capabilities and access to the complete library of ToneMatch custom EQ presets.
The ultra-portable L1 Pro8 is intended for intimate spaces, the L1 Pro16 for small-to-medium spaces; and the L1 Pro32 for entertaining large audiences. The modular design is intended to make each system easy to pack, carry and set up.
“The new L1 Pro family gives users an ideal balance of performance and control on stage and portability everywhere else,” said Craig Jackson, portable PA category manager for Bose Professional. “We took what our customers loved about the original L1 systems and focused on making improvements in almost every dimension. The L1 Pro family delivers more output and bass extension than ever before and doesn’t compromise on portability. We’ve expanded the I/O and integrated ToneMatch technology allowing users to quickly optimise the sound of their instruments and microphones. And with our new L1 Mix app complete control of all mixing functionality is available from your mobile device. We are excited bring the L1 Pro family to market, can’t wait for our customers to experience them.”
The Bose L1 Pro portable systems are complemented by the L1 Mix app, placing complete wireless control in the hands of users for on-the-fly tweaks. Performers can adjust mixer settings via phone or tablet from the stage, or even walk the room, hear how the mix sounds and fine-tune on the go. Volume and tone settings can be changed in the app as well, with users able to watch the LED encoder move to match – the mixer and app are always in sync, in real-time.
The L1 Pro8 weighs 38.9 lb (17.7kg) and is designed for shows in small venues such as coffee shops and cafes. The C-shaped line array features eight articulated 2in (5cm) neodymium drivers; and 180° horizontal coverage with wide vertical dispersion, which Bose explained allows audiences to hear clearly whether seated or standing, and even off to the extreme sides in small- to medium-size venues. The integrated 7in × 13in (18cm x 33cm) subwoofer features a high-excursion RaceTrack driver, and Bose says the performance rivals a conventional 12in (30.5cm) woofer with a smaller footprint.
The L1 Pro16 is designed as a streamlined system with high output and extended low frequency. It weighs 53.7 lb (24.4kg) and is intended for performances in small- to medium-size venues clubs and bars. The J-shaped line array features 16 articulated 2in neodymium drivers and 180° horizontal coverage with tight vertical control on top, and wide dispersion on the bottom, covering audiences whether set up on the floor, an elevated stage and off to the extreme sides in medium to large venues. The integrated 10in × 18in (25.4cm x 45.7cm) subwoofer also features a high-excursion neodymium RaceTrack driver. Bose says the performance rivals a conventional 15in (38.1cm) woofer with a smaller footprint.
The most advanced of the portable line arrays is the L1 Pro32, which weighs 28.8 lb (13.0kg). The Sub1 and Sub2 modular subwoofers weigh 35.5 lb (16.1kg) and 51.7 lb (23.4kg) respectively. The L1 Pro32 is designed for medium- to large-size venues and events such as weddings and festivals. The straight line array features 32 articulated 2in neodymium drivers. Bose says the 180° horizontal coverage provides the most focused vertical coverage pattern and highest SPL over distance in an L1 ever – providing intricate sonic detail, clarity and consistency, even off to the extreme sides in larger venues. It combines with the Bose Sub1 or Sub2 powered bass module via a single-cable and SubMatch connectivity is included for both power and audio. Two Sub1 or Sub2 subwoofers can be stacked for even more bass. There is also Cardioid Mode for focused, directional performance that negates rear-firing bass energy, steering the bass out front and reducing feedback.
Each L1 Pro system has a built-in mixer, allowing creators to connect various instruments, microphones and other sources with ease. Two combo XLR-1/4in phantom-powered inputs, 1/4in (6.35mm) and 1/8in (3.5mm) aux inputs are included. Illuminated rotary encoders provide instant access to volume, tone and reverb settings per channel too. There is also the option to add in additional instruments and other audio sources via a dedicated ToneMatch port – one cable provides both power and digital audio between the system and an optional Bose T4S or T8S mixer (sold separately).
